Motivational speaker concludes Black History Month events

Motivational speaker Kevin Powell will speak at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 28, in McCray Hall. Powell’s presentation is part of Pittsburg State University’s Black History Month series of events.

Motivational speaker Kevin Powell will speak at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 28, in McCray Hall. Powell’s presentation is part of Pittsburg State University’s Black History Month series of events.

Originally a cast member on MTV’s “The Real World,” Powell has since become an award-winning documentary filmmaker and a journalist, and a speaker on race and the state of today’s youth.

A product of poverty, welfare, and a single mother household, Powell overcame incredible odds to earn his place in the world. An entrepreneur, he has branched out to become CEO of his own entertainment company, a candidate for office, and a leader in the black community.

Powell’s articles, essays, and reviews have appeared in Newsweek, Essence, The Washington Post, and Vibe where he interviewed prominent figures from Colin Powell to the late Tupac Shakur. He has written 10 books including the best-selling “Who’s Gonna Take the Weight: Manhood, Race, and Power in America.” His latest book, “Open Letters to America,” features essays on Powell’s dream for the country to come in the wake of Barack Obama’s historic presidential victory.

Powell’s presentation is free and open to the public. For more information, call the PSU Office of Diversity at 620-235-6556.